Jeff Moran Prof. Moran ESLW 350 November 11, 2020 Poetic Analysis Response I am going to analyze a poem titled The Voice by Shel Silverstein. One word that really stood out to me is ‘whisper.’ In line 2, the speaker/persona says that voice whispers inside of them. I love this image, but I don’t know if I always agree that my voice whispers. Sometimes, it’s yelling at me, sometimes it very, very quiet- even quieter than a whisper. I also like how the poet uses quotation marks in lines 3 and 4 to tell us, literally, what the ‘voice inside’ is saying. I do agree that there a voice inside of me that guides me or tells me what is right and wrong. Do I agree that I should listen to the voice inside instead of ‘teachers, preachers, parents, etc.’? Maybe sometimes? Not all the time? Why do I think the author is telling the reader to listen their inner voice? Why is this good? Important? At the end of the poem, in line 8, the persona tells us to ‘just listen to the voice that speaks inside.’ So… just listen? Do I DO everything the voice tells me to do? Maybe sometimes I listen but then do something different? In my opinion, I do think it is important to listen to my own inner voice. For example, when I moved to South American to live and teach in Colombia, many people in my life told me that I should not go. Analysis Sounds & Lines Teacher/preacher -line 5 Rhyming on line 2, 4, 6, and 8 and this does give some rhythm to the poem The enjambment on line 1 allows for line 2 and 4 to end with the same rhythm and rhyme scheme There is a lot going on with enjambment and caesura in lines 5 through 8. The dash before ‘you’ tells the reader to slow down, and that helps the reader find the internal line rhyme between ‘you’ and ‘to.’ Lines 1 and 8 both talk about ‘the voice,’ so there kind of cycle/circle/repetition of the key theme/image/metaphor at the beginning and end of the poem. Simile & Metaphor The voice is a metaphor, I think. For something? What is it? My mind? My soul? My conscience? It does seem like the poet is implying that there is something special about this one voice, just for me. In line 5, why does the author talk about ‘teachers, preachers, parents, and friends? Is he telling us NOT to listen to them? How Many, How Much How many slams in an old screen door? Depends how loud you shut it. How many slices in a bread? Depends how thin you cut it. How much good inside a day? Depends how good you live ‘em. How much love inside a friend? Depends how much you give ‘em. -by Shel Silverstein Fire and Ice Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice. From what I’ve tasted of desire I hold with those who favor fire. But if it had to perish twice, I think I know enough of hate To say that for destruction ice Is also great And would suffice. -by Robert Frost ‘Hope’ is the thing with feathers ‘Hope’ is the thing with feathers That perches in the soul And sings the tune without the words And never stops – at all And sweetest – in the Gale – is heard And sore must be the storm That could abash the little Bird That kept so many warm I’ve heard it in the chillest land And on the strangest Sea Yet – never – in Extremity, It asked a crumb – of me. -by Emily Dickinson What The Heart Of The Young Man Said To The Psalmist Tell me not, in mournful numbers, Life is but an empty dream! For the soul is dead that slumbers, And things are not what they seem. Life is real! Life is earnest! And the grave is not its goal; Dust thou art, to dust returnest, Was not spoken of the soul. Not enjoyment, and not sorrow, Is our destined end or way; But to act, that each to-morrow Find us farther than to-day. Art is long, and Time is fleeting, And our hearts, though stout and brave, Still, like muffled drums, are beating Funeral marches to the grave. In the world’s broad field of battle, In the bivouac of Life, Be not like dumb, driven cattle! Be a hero in the strife! Trust no Future, howe’er pleasant! Let the dead Past bury its dead! Act,— act in the living Present! Heart within, and God o’erhead! Lives of great men all remind us We can make our lives sublime, And, departing, leave behind us Footprints on the sands of time; Footprints, that perhaps another, Sailing o’er life’s solemn main, A forlorn and shipwrecked brother, Seeing, shall take heart again. Let us, then, be up and doing, With a heart for any fate; Still achieving, still pursuing, Learn to labor and to wait. -by Henry Wordsworth Longfellow Sometimes with One I Love Sometimes with one I love I fill myself with rage for fear I effuse unreturn’d love, But now I think there is no unreturn’d love, the pay is certain one way or another, (I loved a certain person ardently and my love was not return’d, Yet out of that I have written these songs). -by Walt Whitman Harlem What happens to a dream deferred? Does it dry up like a raisin in the sun? Or fester like a sore— And then run? Does it stink like rotten meat? Or crust and sugar over— like a syrupy sweet? Maybe it just sags like a heavy load. Or does it explode? -by Langston Huges The Trail Dear trailblazer, the trail is just your feet and nothing more; your feet are just the trail you tread toward what God has in store. There was no trail before you moved, but now you’ve turned around to stare at what you’ve left behind instead of what’s been found. The past is like the mountain mist or boat’s wake in the sea, returning to the unseen world, becoming memory. Instead, look straight ahead of you to plant your firm feet true with faith in you and Earth and God enough to pull you through. But do not let this puzzle you about some perfect way to craft each precious mile of road you leave behind each day. For what’s the purpose of this trail? It’s just to try to see what sits beyond the boundary of each mountain peak, each sea. -by Jeff Moran

Mastering the Art of Online Learning: Your Guide to Acing Online Courses

Introduction

In recent years, the popularity of online courses has skyrocketed, offering learners the flexibility to acquire new skills and knowledge from the comfort of their homes. However, succeeding in online courses requires a different approach compared to traditional classroom settings. To help you make the most of your online learning experience, this article presents essential strategies and tips to ace your online courses.

1. Set Clear Goals and Plan Ahead

Before embarking on an online course, establish clear goals and objectives. Determine what you hope to achieve by the end of the course and break down your goals into manageable milestones. Create a study schedule that aligns with your other commitments, ensuring you allocate dedicated time for coursework, assignments, and revision.

2. Create a Productive Study Environment

Establishing a conducive study environment is crucial for online learning success. Find a quiet, well-lit space where you can concentrate without distractions. Remove any potential interruptions, such as notifications from social media or email. Organize your study materials and have a reliable internet connection to ensure seamless access to course materials.

3. Actively Engage in the Course

Active participation is key to mastering online courses. Engage with course materials, including videos, readings, and interactive components. Take comprehensive notes, highlighting key concepts and ideas. Participate in discussion boards, forums, and virtual meetings to interact with instructors and peers, fostering a sense of community and enhancing your understanding of the subject matter.

4. Manage Your Time Effectively

Online courses offer flexibility, but it’s essential to manage your time wisely to avoid falling behind. Create a detailed schedule, allocating specific time slots for coursework, assignments, and studying. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable segments to prevent procrastination. Prioritize tasks based on deadlines and dedicate focused time to each one, ensuring consistent progress throughout the course.

5. Develop Effective Communication Skills

Online courses often rely on written communication, making it crucial to hone your skills in this area. Be concise and clear in your written responses, paying attention to grammar and spelling. Actively participate in discussions, asking thoughtful questions and providing constructive feedback to your peers. Regularly check your course emails and notifications, ensuring you stay updated with any important announcements or changes.

6. Utilize Available Resources

Take full advantage of the resources provided by your online course platform and instructors. Familiarize yourself with the learning management system (LMS) and explore its features. Access supplementary materials, such as textbooks, lecture slides, and external resources recommended by instructors. Utilize online libraries, research databases, and tutorial services to deepen your understanding of the subject matter.

7. Stay Motivated and Engaged

Maintaining motivation throughout an online course can be challenging, particularly when faced with competing priorities or a lack of face-to-face interaction. Set short-term goals and reward yourself upon their completion. Connect with fellow learners through virtual study groups or online forums to foster a sense of camaraderie. Regularly remind yourself of the benefits and personal growth associated with completing the course successfully.

8. Seek Support and Clarification

Don’t hesitate to seek support or clarification when needed. Reach out to your instructors for guidance or clarification on course material. Utilize online discussion forums to ask questions or engage in collaborative problem-solving. Leverage the support services provided by your course platform or institution, such as technical support or academic advising.

Conclusion

Online courses present unique opportunities for self-paced learning and personal growth. By setting clear goals, creating a productive study environment, actively engaging with course materials, and managing your time effectively, you can maximize your chances of acing online courses. Remember to stay motivated, seek support when needed, and make the most of the available resources. Embrace the flexibility and adaptability of online learning to achieve your educational goals.